The Trip that Changed Everything by Jessica

The Trip that Changed Everything by Jessica - February 2025 Scholarship Essay

Growing up in central Iowa, I had very limited awareness of the diverse world around me. When I visited Guatemala in high school, I was in awe of the contrast in our lifestyles. We spent time in coffee fields where farmers worked hard all day in the smoldering heat then came in and ate a feast that the women in the community prepared. Children danced and put on a play for us in the courtyard as we joined in the meal. Despite extreme political unrest in the country, they had a comfortable and welcoming community.

Upon my return home, I began taking cultural anthropology classes. I had become fascinated by the vibrant cultures that shape their experience as humans, and how it was so different than mine. I took particular interest in exploring economic, political, and cultural issues and was struck by their effect on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. I was keen to know more about how Native Nations and communities adapted to external pressures and violence, while still honoring their culture. The challenge of analyzing this subject within the framework of cultural anthropology deepened my desire to continue exploring similar topics in greater depth.

Anthropological studies focus on creating students and leaders who are open-minded and think critically about the world around them. This has enabled me to better understand the world around me, including different cultures, religions, family structures, and more. By continuing my education through the form of a Master’s degree, I will have the opportunity to continue to explore different cultures and communities around the world, and assess their challenges and experiences through an academic lens with the support of my professors and peers. This will enable me to develop the skills needed to build a globally diverse perspective on social challenges and learn how different communities express their needs and react to solutions.

I hope to obtain a unique and diverse degree that bridges academic research, community engagement, and political policy and advocacy on a global scale. I aspire to work in an applied anthropology setting, utilizing my gained experience as a researcher and anthropologist to conduct ethnographic projects that address pressing social issues, and collaborate with these communities to create culturally informed, sustainable interventions that address their unique challenges while celebrating their cultures. I am particularly drawn to the possibility of working with Universities, NGOs, or governmental agencies that focus on community development and cultural empowerment through the use of sustainable solutions. After gaining valuable work experience, I would eventually like to return to school to pursue a PhD, and acquire a University-level teaching position within the Anthropology field that would allow me to support the next generation of critical thinkers and social leaders.